Tripura suggests stricter laws for crimes against women

Agartala, Jan 8 (IANS) Denial of bail, lowering the juvenile age to 15 from 18 and imprisonment till death are among the key proposals made by the Left Front government in Tripura to curb crimes against women, a top official said here Tuesday.

"The state cabinet headed by Chief Minister Manik Sarkar today (Tuesday) finalised proposals to be sent to the Justice Verma Commission. Denial of bail, lowering the juvenile age to 15 from the existing 18, and imprisonment of the convict till death are among the major suggestions decided by the council of ministry," Tripura Chief Secretary S.K. Panda told reporters.

Panda said the Tripura government has proposed tough laws and setting up of fast-track courts to deal with crimes against women.

"The probe relating to crimes against women has to be completed within three months. During this period the accused should not be given bail," Panda said.

The state government has also suggested banning advertisements that harm the image of women, introduce moral education in schools and colleges and massive awareness campaigns about safety, security and respect to women.

The central government has recently constituted a three-member committee of jurists -- headed by former chief justice of India J.S. Verma -- to give recommendations on amending laws to provide speedier justice and enhanced punishment in sexual assault cases against women.

The Justice Verma Commission has sought suggestions from the state governments, the public in general, eminent jurists, legal professionals, NGOs and women's groups on reviewing the existing laws to provide quicker justice and stringent punishment in cases of sexual assault.

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